Vietnam (1987)

Vietnam Poster

The trials and tribulations of the Goddard family after the entry of Australia into the Vietnam War.

Film Overview
"Vietnam" is a 1987 Australian mini-series produced by Kennedy Miller Productions. Directed by Chris Noonan and John Duigan, the movie takes an unflinching look at the Vietnam War from the point of view of Australian involvement. Over 10 envigorating hours, it weaves a complicated story that delves into the political, military, and social aspects of the controversial war, highlighting the individual dramatic experiences of its characters.

Plot and Narrative
The story, intricately woven by writers Terry Hayes and John Duigan, traces the journey of three characters - Phil Goddard, Megan Goddard, and her other half, Lloyd Thomas. Phil, a journalist, reports the war direct and records the catastrophes of the battlefront. On the other hand, Megan leverages her reporter goal in Saigon, whereas Lloyd serves in the army. The story primarily unfolds through the experiences, has a hard time, and improvements of the trio within the labyrinth of war.

Styles and Symbolism
"Vietnam" presents starkly contrasting images of life, war zones, and protests, highlighting the turmoil underlining the war era. The narrative uses these gadgets to explore the dichotomies of war and peace, patriotism and dissent, providing the grim reality of the battle zone with relentless sincerity. The film goes beyond the bullet-ridden battlefields, checking out the socio-political landscape scarred by deceit, worry, ideological inequality, and psychological chaos. It explores the complexities of human relationships, evaluating their strength under severe conditions, demonstrating how common people bore the remarkable cost of the war.

Performance and Technical Aspects
The stellar cast delivers sensible performance, led by Nicholas Eadie (Phil Goddard), Nicole Kidman (Megan Goddard), and Barry Otto (Lloyd Thomas), drawing viewers into the intricacy of their lives and situation. Their efficiencies encapsulate the psychological turmoil, disillusionment, anger, and hopelessness felt by lots of during the war.

From a technical viewpoint, the film is both striking and immersive. Cinematographers Jeff Darling and Geoff Burton establish an instant sense of authenticity and danger, framing the beauty of Vietnam in between shock and fear. The steady-paced modifying by Wayne Le Clos and Ken Sallows allows the inherent drama to unwind perfectly.

Composer William Motzing's original rating, a mix of period popular music and orchestration, offers the emotional foundation and historic dimension to the extreme truths of the war.

Reception and Legacy
"Vietnam" was consulted with universal praise upon its release, especially for its nuanced representation of the war and the striking efficiencies by the lead stars. It was lauded for its deft storytelling, an epic yet intimate representation of the war and its toll on human lives.

The film won numerous awards and nominations, including the Logie Award for Most Popular Single Telemovie or Miniseries. Nicole Kidman's poignant performance even more strengthened her position in the cinematic world, while the film itself became a standard for war dramas.

In conclusion, "Vietnam" is an effective testimony to the Vietnam War, highlighting the complexities and nuances of war and its influence on individuals and relationships while questioning the extremely essence of war. It handles to record the pulse of the era with its carefully crafted narrative, expressive performances, and gripping images. It remains a substantial historical account that reflects on the harsh truths of war from an Australian point of view.

Top Cast

  • Barry Otto (small)
    Barry Otto
    Douglas Goddard
  • Nicole Kidman (small)
    Nicole Kidman
    Megan Goddard
  • Nicholas Eadie (small)
    Nicholas Eadie
    Phil Goddard
  • Veronica Lang
    Evelyn Goddard
  • John Polson (small)
    John Polson
    Serge
  • Mark Lee (small)
    Mark Lee
    Laurie Fellows
  • Grace Parr
    Le
  • Pauline Chan
    Lien
  • Warren Coleman
    Rabbit
  • Jim Holt
    Lt. Smart
  • Celia De Burgh
    Monica Montgomery